There is certainly no shortage of information about diamonds. Actually, it is overwhelming. A recent internet search for diamonds produced 43 million hits in .16 sec.
All ring shoppers should know the 5 C’s of diamonds: Carat, Cut, Color, Clarity, and Cost. To these, we add a 6th C: Confidence!
While the 5 Cs are a starting point, there is more to know before you buy a diamond, and to that end requires some study. Become diamond-literate by visiting serious websites devoted to diamonds, visiting competent retailers and studying loose stones in person. Here are some basics:
TIPS FOR SELECTING A DIAMOND
1. Carat weight: Expressed in metric carats or “points,” this refers to the total weight of the stone. A 1.00ct. diamond (about 6.5mm in diameter) is 100 points; a .50ct diamond (about 5.2mm in diameter) is 50 points. The carat weight of a diamond is very personal to the couple. Typically, when working on budget, it is better to select a smaller diamond with higher clarity and better color than a larger diamond with visible flaws or bad color. Most of the diamonds used for our rings range from ½ to ¾ carat.
2. Cut: This refers to the shape of the diamond (round, square, radiant, cushion, oval, etc.) and its proportions and finish. A diamond’s cut can turn an ordinary diamond into an extraordinary one with great sparkle and fire.
3. Color: This refers to the color, or actually lack of color, of a diamond. What is desired is colorless--ice clear. Industry ratings start with D, perfect and rare, and go all the way down the alphabet. We emphasize colors E-F-G, which are colorless, highly desirable yet nicely affordable.
4. Clarity: This refers to the type, location and degree of inclusions in or on a diamond. VVS1 (very, very slightly included) diamonds have minimal inclusions that difficult to locate even under a microscope. A lower rating of SI1 (slightly included) has inclusions that are not usually visible to the naked eye. The clearer the stone, the more expensive it is. Given a choice between color and clarity, we generally choose better color.
5. Cost: Buy only what you can afford.
6. Confidence: Have genuine trust in the retailer offering to sell you a diamond.
You will notice that we emphasize design first, diamonds second. Our unique rings take you far away from the ordinary look of a huge solitaire to a world of intricate and inspired design where a diamond is part of a total ring sculpture, not necessarily the dominating centerpiece.
Below is a small sample of diamonds (subject to availability) that work nicely with our custom rings. At your request, we will also search for other precious stones such as sapphires, rubies, zircons, or others. In addition, we frequently set heirloom diamonds in one of our designs. Finally, you may provide a diamond purchased elsewhere along with its certificate.
If you choose to purchase a diamond from us, you have our assurance that it will be the optimal choice based on your design, the overall balance of the above factors and your budget.
| SHAPE | CARAT | COLOR | CLARITY | CERT. | PRICE |
| RD | 0.52 | E | VS1 | EGL | $2,310 |
| RD | 0.56 | F | VS2 | EGL | $2,480 |
| RD | 0.61 | D | VS2 | GIA | $3,645 |
| RD | 0.7 | F | SI1 | EGL | $3,225 |
| RD | 0.73 | F | VS1 | EGL | $4,190 |
| RD | 0.76 | D | SI1 | EGL | $3,950 |
| RD | 0.77 | G | VS2 | EGL | $3,775 |
| RD | 0.96 | F | VS2 | EGL | $6,750 |
| RD | 1.01 | F | VS2 | EGL | $8,425 |
| RD | 1.2 | F | SI1 | EGL | $9,125 |
| PR | 0.54 | E | VS1 | GIA | $2,200 |
| PR | 0.73 | G | VS2 | EGL | $3,525 |
| PR | 0.9 | G | VS1 | EGL | $4,675 |
| PR | 1 | G | VS1 | GIA | $7,595 |
| PR | 1.05 | G | SI1 | EGL | $6,025 |
| PR | 1.12 | D | SI1 | EGL | $6,630 |
| PR | 1.16 | E | VS1 | GIA | $10,945 |
All diamonds listed above are subject to availability.
Frequently asked questions about diamonds:
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1. Is this all the diamonds you have? No. This is a very small sample of round or princess cut diamonds to give you an idea of our insistence on the finest in color, clarity and proportion as well as our favorable pricing for such fine diamonds
2. How do I purchase a diamond? First, you decide the setting. Second, we discuss the size of the stone, what is artist recommended, what is optimal-the biggest or what is minimal-the smallest. Then, we discuss your preferences and budget. The diamonds shown above are selected for optimum balance of overall quality and price. If the diamond you selected from the list above is unavailable, we will search for a comparable stone(s) and discuss options with you.
3. Is a diamond from you better than one I might buy elsewhere? Possibly, but it depends on the characteristics of the stone in comparison. Please discuss with us the details about a competitive stone. We will advise you to buy another diamond if it is better. Then, we will send it for setting.
4. How do I know the quality of your diamonds? First, our gemologists evaluate and critique the selection of diamonds offered. Second, we have many sources for diamonds, not only permitting a wide variety of choices but also creating a competitive tension among our sources to provide us the very best. Third, we work closely with our artisans to establish the parameters for the optimal look of the design you have chosen--our artisans will not set a sub-standard diamond in an exquisite design. Fourth, once you have selected the diamond that meets your needs, we will confirm with you the diamond’s laboratory certificate. Fifth, our diamonds follow a chain of authenticity to make sure the diamond you purchased is the diamond you get. Remember, we work with small independent and trustworthy artisans in small private studios, not large factories where a diamond touches many hands.
5. How do I know your price is the best price? Diamond pricing is very confusing so it is important to make sure that prices are compared against nearly identical stones. We have very specific selection criteria in color, clarity and especially cut and proportion. We try to source the best of the best. We guarantee the very best choice available to us for your design. We believe our prices are very competitive, even against the largest of Internet diamond retailers whose costs are far below ours as a small retailer.
6. Will I see my diamond before it is set? We will provide 3-5 choices for you to choose from in our gallery. This is the best way for you to consider your options and trade-offs among the many factors above.
7. Why should I purchase a diamond from you? We believe this answer is simple: knowledge, convenience, price and trust.
Remember the 6th C above? Confidence! And maybe we should add another, the 7th: Clarksville!
